Review: Every Dead Thing

Ambitious, well-researched, and thoroughly enjoyable! John Connolly's first novel introduces Charlie "Bird" Parker - a former NYPD cop who is in the midst of the emotional turmoil which has followed the murder of his wife and daughter.

Emphatically from the darkest side of the genre, the novel includes a staggering number of themes and plot threads, and it is a testament to Connolly's skill that all the various story lines remain believable as the tale is told. Interwoven with the unfolding canvas of serial murder, vicious betrayal, and supernatural perception are passages which are almost lyrical in the simple beauty of their language and imagery - a tribute to the long tradition of Irish story telling from which I like to believe Connolly has drawn his skill.

Hired as a private investigator in search of a young woman who has disappeared from New York City - Parker first travels to Appalachia and then back to New York City. Once the secrets of several long hidden crimes are revealed, and the book has come to what might have been a conclusion in the hands of another author, Conolly extends the suspense - sending Parker to follow his fascination with the psychic abilities of a Creole woman living in Louisiana, where he hopes to discover the solution to the deaths of his family.

A pair of very unusual sidekicks and friends provide help and emotional support to Parker, and a lovely red haired criminal psychologist provides a romantic thread. This is not a book for the faint of heart - the author describes several murders in extremely graphic detail. But my overall reaction to reading "Every Dead Thing" was an extraordinary pleasure in Conolly's use of language.

By now we know that there at least two other titles in the series. Parker is a memorable character, and I look forward following him in future books.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Woodstock - RAM

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.

Book Review: Every Dead Thing

Please Note: Books reviewed are usually provided by the publisher, author, or an agent. Reviewers usually get to keep the book.